My system is where I want it be and it sounds awesome...


Finished.....Goldenear Reference, Carver tube amp, Prima Luna Pre....Yggy DAC, 2018 Mac mini serving roon and Oppo 203...With the addition of the GE Reference, I’m no longer using subs...Very pleased.  My wife is happy that the checking account will no longer be ravaged...Thanks for the help in selecting the components...
128x128fastninja12
Btw
if you tube roll, start with the preamp. The Carver amp should be just fine with the original tubes.
The 275 amp comes with either Electro Harmonix or JJ tubes for small signal tubes..  I changed to NOS Telefunken for both the 12au7 and the twin 12at7's.  Big difference.  There are quite a few NOS tubes that will make a big difference in that amp.  Sylvania goldpins, Amperex, etc. are all nice change in the signal tubes.  The output or power tubes are all good to go.  Those KT120's are great, although you can run KT88's, KT150's, or even 6550's.  
Yep I’m not getting up and down anymore tweaking knobs, moving the Reference mm to get the perfect place.  I don’t find myself any longer trying to hear what I can improve on.  Instead I’m enjoying the music without being obsessed of what I can do to make it sound better...Of course that was a lie, but I do find myself enjoying more and tweaking less.  I’ve got about 20 hours on the GE Reference now and they are really opening up...Love them.  But my wife’s gonna crap if she sees the price tag.
I am one of those crazy enthusiasts who keeps multiple systems and extra components in the house. I won’t tell you how many systems because I am afraid someone might impose an intervention! I have sold most of my gear and consolidated down to one or two excellent systems on numerous occasions. Each time I have said that I was “done”. Those reasons included finances, clutter, children, and an irate but very understanding wife … Most recently it has been health issues. Quitting never lasted for very long!
It is true that for many, upgrade-itis is a lifelong affliction, but it can be overcome.  It is, after all, (or should be) about the music, not the stuff that produces it. Once you hit a happy place, resist the recurring urge to get back on the treadmill!